'The Big Green Clash' will take place at Richmond Athletic Ground on the 8th September 2024, showcasing the first event of its kind putting a spotlight on how sport can inspire a more eco-friendly and compassionate future.

Spearheading the event is the world’s first-ever earth friendly and plant powered rugby team, the Green Gazelles, an invitational club with 250+ players who are on a mission to promote sustainability, compassion to animals and raise awareness of environmental issues through their love of rugby.

The Big Green Clash will spark important debate around the environment and sport as prominent environmental, sporting and health enthusiasts will assemble for a Sports Climate Summit prior to kick off. The event will feature a family-friendly Eco Village serving delicious food, sustainable items, info stands, artisan treats and more! For the rugby, Green Gazelles face Richmond Rugby, although a friendly focussed event there will be a fierce reputation to be upheld on the pitch with the winning team claiming the Earth Shield. A number of ex-pro and celeb appearances are expected in the Green Gazelles Squad.

Founder of the Green Gazelles and event organiser, Brendon Bale, wishes to combine the positive focus and community spirit of his club to raise eco awareness.

“Our mission is to promote a more compassionate, eco-friendly and sustainable future through our love of rugby.”

“On and off the pitch, we can help kick carbon emissions firmly into touch and tackle environmental issues by promoting sustainable products & practices, plant-based foods and raising funds for earth-friendly charities to enable them to do more”

Working in collaboration with The Word Forest Organisation, Pledgeball and more charities to be announced, all profits made from the day will be donated to support a wide-range of projects for positive change.

Co-founder of Word Forest, Tracey West, is both delighted and grateful for the opportunity to be involved with the Green Gazelles and is thrilled that 'The Big Green Clash' is taking place.

“We have to use all the tools in the box to evoke swift environmental behaviour change to support and protect our planet. I cannot think of a more convivial way to raise awareness of what our world needs right now, than through a spectacular, sporting event”

Chairman of Richmond Rugby, Nick Preston, shared his enthusiasm:

“Richmond Rugby is proud to lend our support to The Big Green Clash. Sustainability in sport is becoming a critical issue and we look forward to hosting this key event in the autumn.”

Key Highlights:

8th September at Richmond Athletic Ground, London
Charity Exhibition Rugby Match for Earth Caring Causes: Green Gazelles vs Richmond
Sports Climate Summit with 100+ VIPs attending
Eco Village made up of best local and eco friendly stalls
Family-friendly Event with Kids Activities
Health & Wellness Zone
Tickets available Here

Backed by:

Earth friendly Charities & Businesses such as Pledgeball, Word Forest Org, Carma, Ethical Bedding, PROVERB + more to be announced
VIP Attendees include: Kate Strong (World Record Holder), Jamie Laing (Candy Kittens), Claire Poole (CEO Sport Positive) + more to be announced

Press Kit: The Big Green Clash Event Press Kit

For further event information, news or media enquiries reach out to the below contact:

Media Contact:
For all media inquiries, please contact:

Brendon Bale
Event Organiser & Green Gazelles Rugby Director
greengazellesrugby@gmail.com
07342247801

Notes to Editors:

About Green Gazelles Rugby Club:

Green Gazelles Rugby Club is a community space for like-minded rugby enthusiasts, it has 250+ players and a growing network of like-minded earth caring partners. Their barbarian style setup brings them together for health/wellness training camps, exhibition fixtures like The Big Green Clash, 7s rugby tournaments and community impact days. Social Media Handles: Linkedin / IG

About Word Forest

This environmental charity is based in Devon and was founded in 2017 by Tracey and Simon West. The charity plants trees, builds schools, facilitates education and engages in the relief of human suffering by supporting women’s empowerment and community development, across Kenya. Their approach is different; they address the human needs of the incredible people who plant and tend the forests using a collaborative and participatory approach. Investment in them is vital if we stand a chance of mitigating the rising tide of climate chaos and eradicating poverty and hunger. For more watch their documentary #TreesAreTheKey narrated by Kate Winslet.

About Pledgeball

Pledgeball was founded by Katie Cross. This research-proven charity engages people around environmental sustainability. They work with stakeholders across the sports community, from fans including partners the FSA to clubs, from leagues to governing bodies. Plus organiser of Green Football Weekend.